Month: July 2012

For anyone looking to improve and brighten their smile, teeth whitening is a popular choice. Some people choose simple, over-the-counter remedies, such as specially-formulated toothpastes, while others choose specialized kits that allow for greater results in the comfort of their home.

Others still employ the services of a cosmetic dentist to ensure the job of teeth whitening is done professionally and so gain the best possible results. Teeth whitening is, therefore, a popular type of cosmetic dental treatment.

Some discoloration of teeth is natural as we live our lives; tea and coffee, cola drinks and various foods, as well as tobacco and alcohol can all cause teeth to lose their sparkle.

Treatment involves using a bleaching agent to eat away at the causes of tooth staining, and so isn’t suitable for everyone. Pregnant or lactating women should, for example, think twice about undergoing treatment during their pregnancy.

Teenagers under the age of 16 should also avoid bleaching agents used in teeth whitening. This is because the patient’s adult teeth are still in the development and growth stage and so the teeth’s nerves are enlarged. As a result, bleaching can lead to nerve damage which can in turn cause sensitive teeth.

Patients who already possess sensitive teeth or gums, or whose gum tissue is receding should also avoid teeth whitening, as should anyone who has defective dental restorations – at least until after a consultation with a dentist and/or remedial treatment to correct the problem. Remedial treatment should also be sought prior to bleaching if the patient has gum disease, worn teeth or cavities.

And if a patient had dental implants, or other artificial dental restoration, such as a bridge, they should be aware that bleaching will have no effect on the prosthetic teeth, and so the patient may end with uneven whitening.

For any patient considering restorative treatment to bring back the shine in their smile, having a chat with our cosmetic dentist is recommended in order to ensure their current oral health is suitable to undergo the bleaching process used in teeth whitening treatment.

About

Dr. Kipton Anderson and his highly trained team invite you to experience distinctive dental care in an atmosphere of trust and respect. We provide comprehensive preventive, restorative and cosmetic dentistry for smiles that instill pride and confidence.